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COP 28 Live Blog - 5th December
UNFCCC
Welcome to our live blog of the 28th Conference of the Parties (COP 28) to the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC), taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Over the next two weeks, world leaders, policymakers, activists, and experts will gather to discuss and negotiate critical issues related to climate change, biodiversity, and sustainability. The stakes are high, as the world faces a climate crisis that demands urgent and transformative action.
We will be bringing you real-time updates, insights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses of the event, providing a comprehensive overview of the discussions, decisions, and outcomes of COP 28.
Next: 6th December
Previous: 4th December
Here's A Quick Wrap Up Of Today's Activities
Updated 23:00h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
A wave of progress swept through COP 28 today, but challenges still lay ahead.
- Global Cooling Pledge Signed by 60+ Countries: The pledge aims to reduce cooling-related emissions by 68% by 2050, marking a first-of-its-kind effort to address a rapidly growing sector.
- Indigenous Youth Take Center Stage: Indigenous youth highlighted the importance of integrating traditional knowledge and perspectives into climate action strategies and ensuring meaningful participation in decision-making.
- U.S. launches international engagement plan to boost nuclear fusion technology: The initiative aims to advance nuclear fusion as a pivotal solution in the battle against climate change.
- UAE and Malta join Powering Past Coal Alliance.
- BBC claims of "secret oil deals" at COP28 under fire.
- Global dairy giants create alliance to tackle methane emissions: This alliance represents a significant step towards greater transparency and accountability within the dairy industry.
- Concerns mount over carbon credit deals amidst negotiations: Transparency and preventing greenwashing remain crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of carbon markets.
- Current COP president, oil chief Al Jaber, may be the president of COP 29.
- Libya aims for near zero gas flaring by 2030.
- Over 60 countries are set to pledge to slash cooling emissions by 68% by 2050: This initiative highlights the growing recognition of the need to address cooling-related emissions.
- Environment ministers call for nature's inclusion in Global Stocktake.
- Latin America must quadruple its climate investment to meet goals: A Un report highlights the need for increased financial resources to achieve climate goals in the region.
- Negotiations remain stalled on key issues, including fossil fuel phase-out and finance.
- Record number of fossil fuel lobbyists flood COP: This raises concerns about the influence of fossil fuel interests in the negotiations.
- Japan prepares to issue climate bonds worth $11 billion: This move demonstrates Japan's commitment to transitioning to a low-carbon economy.
- Fossil fuels emissions to hit record high in 2023
New Mexico Unveils Plan To Divert Wastewater For Clean Energy Manufacturing
Updated 21:19h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Today, the state of New Mexico, the second-largest oil and gas producer in the US, has announced a plan to divert wastewater from the industry into water-intensive clean energy projects like electric vehicle and solar manufacturing. This innovative initiative aims to address two critical challenges – reducing pressure on the state's dwindling water resources and mitigating the potential earthquake risks associated with overflowing reinjection wells.
Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham sees this program as a model for other regions facing similar issues. The program will allocate $500 million towards acquiring treated drilling wastewater and brackish groundwater for a strategic water reserve. In addition, the state will seek deals with water sellers starting early next year.
The governor outlined a two-fold purpose for the water reserve. Brackish water will be potentially treated for public consumption, while produced water will be made suitable for use in clean energy manufacturing, a sector notorious for its high water consumption. This initiative is expected to attract new clean energy businesses to New Mexico.
New Mexico's oil and gas industry generated over 2 billion barrels of produced water in 2022, of which 1.2 billion were reinjected underground. However, climate-driven droughts have exacerbated the state's water scarcity concerns. The Rio Grande drying up in Albuquerque is a stark example of this crisis. Climate models predict a further 25% reduction in available water across the state.
Governor Lujan Grisham emphasized that the program will prioritize utilizing the best cleaning technologies to ensure the water's suitability for its intended purposes. Long-term contracts will be offered to potential water sellers, incentivizing participation and contributing to a sustainable future for New Mexico's water resources.
Global eCooking Coalition Launched To Electrify Cooking
Updated 20:19h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
The Global eCooking Coalition (GeCCo) was launched today at the "Electrifying Cooking: A Just Journey Towards Net-zero" event, marking a significant step forward in the fight against climate change and energy poverty. This landmark initiative brings together a diverse group of stakeholders, including governments, businesses, civil society organizations, and international institutions, to mobilize finance and accelerate the adoption of electric cooking solutions worldwide.
Electric cooking offers a clean and sustainable alternative to traditional cooking methods, which rely heavily on fossil fuels and biomass. By transitioning to electric cooking, communities can significantly reduce their greenhouse gas emissions, improve air quality, and contribute to achieving global net-zero goals. In addition, electric cooking provides a host of other benefits, including improved health outcomes, reduced household energy costs, and greater empowerment for women and girls.
GeCCo's mission is to enable a mass transition to electric cooking in at least 10 countries across Sub-Saharan Africa, Asia, and Latin America by 2030. This ambitious goal will require a coordinated and collaborative effort from all stakeholders involved. The coalition will play a critical role in facilitating knowledge sharing, building capacity, and mobilizing the necessary resources to support this global shift.
60+ Countries Sign The Global Cooling Pledge
Updated 19:22h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
In a landmark move, over 60 countries have just signed the Global Cooling Pledge, vowing to reduce cooling-related emissions by 2050. Led by the UAE, host of COP 28, and the Cool Coalition, this ambitious initiative targets a 68% cut compared to 2022 levels, marking a first-of-its-kind effort to address a rapidly growing sector.
Driven by rising temperatures and increasing demand, cooling emissions are projected to triple by 2050, contributing roughly 7% to global warming. Recognizing this critical challenge, the pledge seeks to tackle potent greenhouse gases emitted by air conditioners and refrigerators, primarily through enhancing energy efficiency and phasing out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs).
The United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP) estimates that tackling cooling emissions globally could prevent the release of up to 78 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, highlighting the immense potential of collective action in combating climate change.
Indigenous Youth Take Center Stage At Youth Climate Champion Pavilion
Updated 19:19h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
The Youth Climate Champion Pavilion buzzed with energy today as indigenous youth from all six socio-cultural regions gathered to advocate for their critical role in the UNFCCC process. In a series of insightful discussions, they engaged with leaders of each working group, representatives from indigenous organizations and communities, and UN Youth Climate Champion Shamma Al Mazrui. Their voices echoed the importance of integrating traditional knowledge and perspectives into climate action strategies, ensuring meaningful participation in decision-making, and promoting just solutions that respect the rights and territories of indigenous peoples.
U.S. Launches International Engagement Plan To Boost Nuclear Fusion Technology
Updated 18:36h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
IAEA
U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate, John Kerry has unveiled an ambitious international engagement plan aimed at advancing nuclear fusion as a pivotal solution in the battle against climate change. This initiative, encompassing 35 nations, is set to channel efforts into critical areas such as research and development, addressing supply chain challenges, and enhancing regulatory and safety frameworks.
Kerry expressed optimism about fusion's transformative potential, highlighting its ability to harness emissions-free energy by replicating the process that powers the sun. Despite the promise, significant obstacles, including the need for sustained net energy output and overcoming regulatory and construction challenges, underscore the complexity of integrating fusion into the global energy landscape.
Noteworthy collaborations, such as the recent agreement between Britain and the United States on fusion, signify growing international interest and commitment. As countries like Australia, China, Germany, and Japan actively pursue fusion research, the quest for unlocking unlimited, clean power sources enters a new era, with the hope that fusion technology could revolutionize the world while mitigating the environmental impact of traditional energy generation methods.
UAE And Malta Join Powering Past Coal Alliance
Updated 18:15h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Today, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Malta has joined the Powering Past Coal Alliance (PPCA), an international group which unites governments at all levels in their commitment to phasing out “unabated” coal power generation and promoting the transition to clean energy. The PPCA gained significant momentum earlier this week with new pledges from influential players like the United States. Now, the addition of the UAE and Malta further strengthens the alliance's global reach.
While not a major player in the coal industry, Malta imports some coal for its heavy industries. However, its membership in the PPCA signifies a proactive approach to transitioning towards cleaner energy sources.The UAE, known for its oil and gas resources, surprisingly lacks coal reserves. Despite its significant reliance on fossil fuels, the UAE currently operates only one coal-fired power station. Interestingly, the country had initially planned to develop a second coal plant, but ultimately switched course and opted for a gas-fired plant instead.
BBC Claims Of “Secret Oil Deals” At COP 28 Under Fire
Updated 17:15h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Give Climate Warning ⚠️ to BBC News: BBC claims about COP28 secret oil deals are flawed | We Don't Have Time
The BBC has dropped a bombshell story in partnership with the Center for Climate Reporting (CCR), claiming that the UAE presidency of the UN’s COP28 climate summit in Dubai secretly used COP negotiations to strike new oil and gas deals that would increase global fossil fuel production. This story suffers from serious flaws and omissions, and as a result, is misleading. Yet it’s been seized on by environmental campaigners to suggest that the COP28 negotiations are nothing more than a ploy to expand global fossil fuel production. Dive into this fascinating piece of investigative journalism that sheds light on the ongoing propaganda battle surrounding COP28. Remember, the reality is often more nuanced than it appears https://ageoftransformation.org/bbc-claims-about-cop28-secret-oil-deals-are-flawed/ The original article in BBC: https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-67508331 Also on this theme, take a look at The Guardian's recent story from yesterday, where their quotation of Sultan Ahmed Al Jaber seems to have been taken out of context. https://app.wedonthavetime.org/posts/6dbc9101-fc99-4541-84dc-5dcc131a8112#/ What is your opinion on this story? Are journalists supporting the climate movement or hindering it by oversimplifying facts? Join the dialogue and share your views in the comments below.
https://app.wedonthavetime.org/posts/8a633651-acac-4c5a-847d-0d16c4c416d1
The BBC's recent report, in collaboration with the Center for Climate Reporting, alleging that the UAE planned to use COP 28 negotiations to secretly secure oil and gas deals has generated significant controversy. However, closer analysis reveals crucial flaws and omissions in the report, raising questions about its accuracy and undermining its claims.
Global Dairy Giants Create Alliance To Tackle Methane Emissions
Updated 16:46 GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Six of the world's largest dairy companies announced the formation of a new global alliance to tackle methane emissions from livestock. Methane, a potent greenhouse gas with nearly 30 times the warming power of carbon dioxide, is a major concern especially when it comes to the livestock industry, which is responsible for 30% of global anthropogenic methane emissions.
The Dairy Methane Action Alliance, which includes Danone, Bel Group, General Mills, Lactalis USA, Kraft Heinz, and Nestle, has committed to reporting their methane emissions by mid-2024 and developing action plans by the end of the year. While the alliance doesn't require specific methane reduction targets, it represents a significant step towards greater transparency and accountability within the dairy industry. By working together to develop and implement solutions, like feed additives and improved manure management practices, these companies have the potential to make a significant impact on global methane emissions and help mitigate climate change.
Concerns Mount Over Carbon Credit Deals Amidst Negotiations
Updated 15:52h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
The carbon credit market continues to be a source of controversy, with recent reports highlighting concerns about land grabbing and lack of transparency. While nations at COP 28 are engaged in negotiations to establish a global framework for carbon trading, the Bahamas, Dominica, and Comoros have signed deals with UAE-based company Blue Carbon, raising further questions about the potential for greenwashing and continued reliance on fossil fuels.
Blue Carbon's involvement in large-scale land acquisitions in Africa has sparked criticism, particularly from those who view it as a new form of land grabbing. Additionally, the potential for the UAE to use carbon credits as a means to avoid scaling back its own fossil fuel emissions remains a major concern.
As negotiations continue on how nations should generate, trade, and account for carbon credits, ensuring transparency and preventing greenwashing will be crucial to ensuring the effectiveness of this market in combating climate change.
Current COP President, Oil Chief Al Jaber, May Be The President Of COP 29
Updated 15:05h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Sultan Al Jaber, CEO of the UAE's state oil company and current president of COP 28, may continue his leadership role for the upcoming COP 29 climate summit due to ongoing challenges in selecting a new host nation. Traditionally, the presidency and hosting responsibilities for the annual COP conferences rotate geographically, with a new region, country, and president assuming leadership each year.
However, Russia's war in Ukraine has significantly impacted this process, leaving the planned Eastern European host nation facing major hurdles. Russia's veto power against the 27 EU member states and the mutual vetoes between Armenia and Azerbaijan have drastically narrowed the pool of potential COP29 hosts. Additionally, the considerable financial burden of hosting such a large-scale international event further restricts the options available.
While seven small nations – Albania, Georgia, Moldova, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Serbia, and Montenegro – qualify to host COP 29, concerns remain regarding their capacity to accommodate the anticipated influx of attendees.
UN rules dictate that if a new president is not chosen and a suitable host nation cannot be identified, Bonn, Germany, where the UNFCCC resides, will automatically become the default host. This scenario would place Al Jaber at the helm of the next summit, raising concerns, again, on potential conflict of interest arising from his role a big oil executive.
Libya Aims for Near Zero Gas Flaring By 2030
Updated 14:36h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Libya's National Oil Corporation (NOC) has announced ambitious plans to drastically reduce gas flaring by the end of the decade. At a press conference held today at COP 28, the corporation's chairman, Farhat Bengdara, declared their goal of achieving near zero gas flaring by 2030.
Alongside this ambitious goal, Bengdara also outlined plans for an 83% reduction in gas flaring by 2030, a crucial intermediary step on the path to complete elimination. This significant commitment represents a step towards a cleaner energy future for Libya and a reduction in the country's environmental impact.
Over 60 Countries Are Set To Pledge To Slash Cooling Emissions By 68% by 2050.
Updated 13:39h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
The United States and over 60 nations are reportedly endorsing a groundbreaking pledge to slash cooling-related emissions by 2050, according to an exclusive Reuters source. This historic initiative, the Global Cooling Pledge, aims for a minimum 68% reduction in such emissions compared to 2022 levels. It marks the first global effort specifically targeting energy emissions from the cooling sector, a challenging endeavor given the industry's anticipated growth amid rising temperatures.
Refrigerant and energy-related emissions from cooling contribute roughly 7% to climate-warming emissions, with the demand for cooling energy expected to triple by 2050. The revelation of U.S. support by Reuters suggests potential regulatory or incentive measures within the country and could pressure other nations to follow suit. While officials remain anonymous, there's a focus on enhancing cooling technology efficiency and phasing out hydrofluorocarbons (HFCs), potent greenhouse gases emitted by air conditioners and refrigerators.
While global efforts to address cooling emissions are crucial, India has expressed reservations about the pledge, citing concerns that need resolution for its participation. A Lancet medical journal report warns of a potential quadrupling of heat stress deaths by mid-century. The UNEP estimates that tackling cooling emissions globally could prevent the release of up to 78 billion metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent, highlighting the importance of collective action in the face of climate challenges.
Environment Ministers Call For Nature's Inclusion In Global Stocktake
Updated 13:04h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Environment ministers from Germany and Colombia have led an open letter urging the inclusion of nature in the Global Stocktake outcome, a critical piece of the Paris Agreement that guides future national plans for limiting global warming. The letter, spearheaded by Susana Muhamad and Steffi Lemke, underscores the crucial role of nature-based solutions in mitigating climate change while simultaneously benefiting biodiversity and human well-being.
Nature-based solutions encompass a range of strategies that leverage the power of natural ecosystems, such as forests, wetlands, and grasslands, to address climate change. Scientists highlight these solutions as cost-effective and underutilized tools with immense potential to protect humanity from the environmental challenges of our time.
The open letter emphasizes the interconnectedness of climate and biodiversity efforts, highlighting the opportunities for achieving wins for both, as evidenced by the landmark agreements reached at last year's nature-focused CBD COP 15 in Montreal. By integrating nature-based solutions into the Global Stocktake, we can create a more comprehensive and effective strategy for tackling the climate crisis and securing a sustainable future for all.
UN Report: Latin America Must Quadruple Its Climate Investment To Meet Goals
Updated 12:53h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
A new report by the United Nations Economic Commission for Latin America and the Caribbean (ECLAC) suggests that Latin America and the Caribbean need to invest up to 4.9% of their gross domestic product (GDP) annually by 2030 to meet their climate goals. This is a significant increase from the current 0.5% of GDP that is being invested in climate action.
The report found that the region needs to spend a total of $2.1 trillion to $2.8 trillion by 2030 to achieve its climate targets. The majority of this investment (67%) would go towards climate mitigation, such as projects related to transportation, energy, infrastructure, and deforestation. The remaining 33% would be directed towards climate adaptation measures, including early warning systems, poverty reduction, coastal protection, and water sanitation.
The ECLAC report warns that inaction on climate change could have dire consequences for the region. Climate change, excluding the impacts of extreme weather events, could reduce labor productivity by 10% in some countries, hindering economic growth. The report also highlights the extreme weather events that are already plaguing parts of the region, such as the worst dry season in Argentina's Parana-La Plata region since 1944 and the most prolonged and severe drought in Chile in a millennium.
Talks Bump Up Against Familiar Roadblocks
Updated 12:33h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Despite a marathon 24-hour session, negotiations are in a holding pattern, with progress stalled and anxieties simmering. While negotiators approached the talks with a “can-do” spirit, cracks are beginning to show, revealing familiar fissures in the global effort to curb climate change.
Saudi Arabia is playing a game of “carbon capture everywhere,” attempting to inject the technology into every discussion, even where it's demonstrably off-topic. Additionally, their curious insistence on adding “emissions” after "fossil fuels" whenever phase-outs are mentioned raises questions about their commitment to genuine decarbonization.
Despite China being a renewable energy powerhouse and standing to reap rewards from its expansion, they've held back from the pledge to triple renewable energy deployment. Adding fuel to the fire, China's lengthy statements have hogged the spotlight, leaving other developing nations voiceless. This suggests potential discord within the G77, with smaller nations prioritizing the ambitious 1.5°C target, while China historically prefers the less stringent "well below 2°C" phrasing.
These roadblocks highlight the intricate dance of these negotiations. While some steps forward have been taken, the path ahead is riddled with familiar hurdles. The question remains: will negotiators find a way to tango past these obstacles, or will the music stop before the climate crisis takes its final bow?
Study: Net Zero Pledges Ring Hollow As Major Oil Producers Refuse To Stop Drilling
Updated 12:10h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Despite committing to net zero emissions, none of the world's major oil and gas producers have concrete plans to phase out fossil fuels, a new report reveals. This discrepancy between lofty goals and tangible action exposes a critical gap in the fight against climate change.
The Net Zero Tracker, an independent data consortium including Oxford University, analyzed data from 69 oil-producing nations, including heavyweights like Saudi Arabia, the United States, and Russia. While all pledged net zero, only three minor producers – Denmark, Spain, and France – have outlined plans to quit drilling eventually. Denmark and Spain also stand alone among gas producers in committing to a phase-out.
This lack of commitment from major players casts a shadow over the debate in the negotiation rooms on the first-ever agreement to phase out fossil fuels. The urgency of the situation is stark. Jim Skea, chair of the U.N.'s climate science panel, IPCC, warned that global oil use must plummet by 60% and gas by 45% by 2050 to avoid exceeding the 1.5-degree Celsius warming threshold.
Record Number Of Fossil Fuel Lobbyists Flood COP
Updated 12:00h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
A staggering 2,456 fossil fuel lobbyists have “infiltrated” COP 28, according to a new analysis by the Kick Big Polluters Out (KBPO) coalition. This unprecedented influx dwarfs the presence of nearly every country delegation, except for Brazil and the host nation, the United Arab Emirates. In fact, it outnumbers the combined representatives of the 10 nations most vulnerable to climate change, and surpasses the voices of Indigenous Peoples by a shocking sevenfold margin.
“...It's clear this COP isn't here for real climate action.....This is evident in how the UNFCCC permits nearly eight times the amount of badges for fossil fuel lobbyists than Indigenous delegates from the International Indigenous Peoples Forum on Climate Change”
- Brenna Two Bears, Lead Coordinator of the Indigenous Environmental Network
“These findings tell us that the dynamics within these spaces remain fundamentally colonial. It comes as no surprise that the majority of the corporations influencing these talks are from the Global North...In years past COPs have become an avenue for many companies to greenwash their polluting businesses and foist dangerous distractions from real climate action....”
- Caroline Muturi from IBON Africa
This year's fossil fuel presence marks a quadrupling since COP 27, which itself held the record for lobbyist attendance. The overwhelming presence of fossil fuel interests casts a dark shadow over COP 28's legitimacy. While the world's most vulnerable nations and Indigenous voices struggle to be heard, the polluters who ignited the crisis are granted unfettered access. This imbalanced power dynamic raises critical questions about the conference's ability to address the climate emergency with the urgency and justice it demands.
Japan Prepares To Issue Climate Bonds Worth $11 billion
Updated 11:53h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Various sources say Japan is gearing up to issue $11 billion in climate bonds next February. This move, totaling 1.6 trillion yen, marks the first tranche of Prime Minister Kishida's ambitious 20 trillion yen “green transition” bond program, aiming to fund crucial investments towards a carbon-neutral future.
The February issuance will see two auctions: one for 800 billion yen in 10-year bonds, followed by another for the same amount in 5-year bonds. These auctions will be finalized after consultations with bond market participants this week.
By attracting international investors with these climate bonds, Japan aims to unlock the capital necessary to accelerate its transition to a cleaner and more secure energy landscape. This not only benefits the environment but also strengthens its energy independence and fosters long-term economic resilience.
Draft Text Hints At Fossil Fuel Phase Out
Updated 11:45h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Negotiators at COP 28 are considering a potential turning point in the fight against climate change: phasing out fossil fuels. The second draft of the summit's final agreement reveals three options on the table, ranging from an “orderly and just” phase out to complete silence on the issue.
This marks a significant shift from previous climate talks, where fossil fuels remained largely untouched. The “global stocktake” process at COP 28 aims to assess progress and chart a course for curbing global temperatures, and phasing out fossil fuels is now front and centre.
The draft offers three stark choices: a complete phase out, an accelerated phase out of unabated fossil fuels (those without emissions capture), or no mention of “phase out” at all. While the first option signals a bold commitment to climate action, the second acknowledges the challenges of transitioning away from deeply entrenched energy sources. The third option, however, represents a potential backslide, leaving the door open for continued fossil fuel dependence.
The draft also addresses the urgent issue of coal, the most polluting fossil fuel. It proposes a “rapid phase out of unabated coal power this decade” and an immediate ban on new coal plants.
The coming days at COP 28 will be crucial. Can negotiators bridge their differences and forge a historic agreement to phase out fossil fuels?
Fossil Fuels Emissions To Hit Record High In 2023
Updated 11:30h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
Global CO2 emissions from fossil fuels are projected to reach a new high this year, according to the Global Carbon Budget report released today. This upward trend, driven by India and China's growing energy demands, pushes the world further away from achieving the Paris Agreement's goal of limiting warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
While overall emissions plateaued in 2023 due to a dip in land-use emissions, fossil fuel use is expected to contribute a record 36.8 billion metric tons of CO2, a 1.1% increase from last year. When land-use emissions are included, the total climbs to 40.9 billion tons.
China's post-lockdown economic rebound and India's outpacing renewable energy growth are primarily responsible for this surge in fossil fuel emissions. The report warns that this trajectory makes exceeding the 1.5C target "inevitable," jeopardizing the delicate balance of our planet.
Exeter University's Professor Pierre Friedlingstein, the lead researcher, emphasizes the urgent need for rapid fossil fuel emission cuts, even to keep the 2C target in reach. The IPCC has set a 43% reduction target by 2030 for achieving the 1.5C limit, but emissions are currently 1.4% above pre-pandemic levels.
However, amidst this bleak outlook, there are glimmers of hope. Emissions in the US and EU are declining, partly due to phasing out coal plants. Additionally, researchers from CREA predict a potential "structural decline" in China's emissions as early as next year due to their massive investments in renewable energy.
While 26 countries, representing 28% of global emissions, are now on a downward trend, mostly in Europe, the overall picture remains concerning. COP 28 leaders face a critical challenge: to agree on swift and substantial cuts in fossil fuel emissions to prevent the worst consequences of climate change.
Fossil Fuels Will Take Front And Center Today
Updated 11:20h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Today, COP 28 turns its focus to the contentious issue of energy and fossil fuels, the summit's thorniest point. While negotiators debate whether the final document should include a commitment to phase down fossil fuels, a key demand from vulnerable nations, a meeting of energy ministers will convene to discuss a potential shift towards hydrogen fuels.
Adding to the tension, a crucial scientific report on 2023 emissions is set for release, revealing the world's progress, or lack thereof, in curbing greenhouse gases.
Yesterday wasn't without its own drama. COP 28 President Sultan Al-Jaber, facing accusations of climate science denial, vehemently defended his position, further fueling the already heated atmosphere.
Despite the controversies, COP 28 has seen a record-breaking 86,000 participants, sparking both optimism and concern. Some hail it as a testament to growing global commitment, while others worry the sheer size and glitz could overshadow the urgency of tackling climate change.
As the summit enters its crucial energy and fossil fuel phase, one thing is clear: the path to climate action is paved with both progress and conflict. Can nations bridge their differences and forge a path towards a sustainable future? Only time will tell.
Mitigation Talks Stall As Adaptation Fund Receives Boost
Updated 11:10h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
The Adaptation Fund, a vital source of climate finance for vulnerable nations, secured a boost of USD 155 million during its Contributor Dialogue yesterday. However, a cloud of concern hangs over its future, as negotiators grapple with how to replenish its coffers if promised funds from the Paris Agreement's market mechanisms fall through.
While ministers lauded the Adaptation Fund's achievements, their praise was tinged with trepidation. Finance discussions buzzed with questions about securing the Fund's long-term sustainability. The Paris Agreement had pledged a share of proceeds from carbon markets to bolster the Fund, but that promise now hangs in the balance. Without this crucial source of income, the Fund's ability to support developing countries in adapting to climate change could be severely hampered.
Meanwhile, progress on mitigation efforts remained sluggish. Sessions dedicated to market and non-market approaches, ambition levels, and implementation plans yielded little headway. Emissions from international aviation and shipping were also contentious topics, with negotiations snagged on complex technicalities.
Amidst the stalled mitigation talks, a glimmer of hope emerged on the transparency front. Developed countries acknowledged the vital role of robust national reporting in understanding the global climate picture. This reporting, mandated by the Paris Agreement, presents a significant challenge for developing nations, particularly least developed countries and small island states. They lack the resources and expertise to gather and report the vast amount of data required under the new framework.
The discussions highlighted the need for increased support to developing countries, enabling them to build their capacity for accurate and comprehensive reporting. This would not only enhance transparency but also empower them to effectively track their climate actions and measure their impact of our planet's forests.
Good Morning!
Updated 11:00h GST/UTC+4 - 5/12/23
UNFCCC
Welcome to another day of our special live coverage of COP 28! Just as we have for the past six days, we'll keep you in the loop with real-time updates, expert insights, and exclusive behind-the-scenes glimpses.
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21 w
Your live blog's commitment to delivering real-time updates and exclusive insights from COP 28 is appreciated.
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21 w
Another day of a lively blog at #COP. Learnt quite a lot here.
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21 w
The live blog is so far very engaging and insightful. I applaud
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21 w
Here we go again. I am looking forward to today's live blog!